Province releases rules for cannabis retailers

On February 16, 2018, the Government of Alberta introduced updates to the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Regulation that will govern how legal cannabis retailers operate. While the regulations will establish a province-wide regulatory framework, municipalities will have the ability to adjust certain aspects to best suit their communities.

The regulation now outlines a number of operational requirements for private retailers, including:

Mandatory background checks for retail licence applicants.

Mandatory training and background checks for all retail employees.

One person, group, or organization cannot hold more than 15 per cent of retail licences in Alberta.

A 100-metre buffer for stores from schools and provincial health-care facilities. However, municipalities have the ability to adjust these buffer zones or add additional ones to best suit their communities’ needs.

Store hours set between 10 a.m. and 2 a.m. (the same as liquor stores) with municipalities able to adjust these hours.

Mandatory security measures in stores.

For further information or inquires about the legalization of cannabis please contact: